Dortmund looks an increasingly unlikely destination for suspicious Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford this winter.
Mail Sport reported earlier this month that the England star's representatives have held talks with several clubs over a move this month after Ruben Amorim dropped him after admitting he was 'ready for a new challenge' away from Old Trafford.
Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund were among the clubs in talks to sign the player, but his £350,000-a-week wages have all but ruled the German side out of contention for his signature, even in the short term.
The side had taken the lead among contenders to land the striker after making a concerted effort to convince him, with Sebastian Kehl and Sven Mislintat believing he could have the same impact as Jadon Sancho last season.
United wanted a deal structured in the same way, with loan fees and performance-related bonuses.
Dortmund's situation is further complicated by the dismissal of head coach Nuri Sahin following the team's defeat to Bologna in the Champions League on Tuesday evening – their fourth defeat in a row.
If costs come down, the deal could still be revised in the final stages of the period. Dortmund are also interested in Brentford's Kevin Schade, but he is valued at £45 million.
With AC Milan completing a loan move for Manchester City captain Kyle Walker on Thursday, Rashford realistically leaves just one landing spot before the window closes on February 3.
The 27-year-old's representatives spoke with Barcelona sporting director Deco on Tuesday. It is believed that the Spanish giants have always been Rashford's preference, but they would have to negotiate the financial burden of a loan deal.
The talks took place in Lisbon, with Barcelona playing Benfica in the Champions League in the Portuguese city this week.
Barcelona have made it clear that they want to bring Rashford to the club during the transfer window.
However, the club acknowledged that their pursuit is currently stalled as they do not have the salary cap space required to sign Rashford if they were able to complete a deal with Man United.
During this week's meeting with Rashford's entourage, Deco informed them of the squad's need to offload players before adding anything.
Defender Eric Garcia was close to completing a move to Como FC, but the deal has now fallen through. Meanwhile, Ansu Fati could leave to free up space for Rashford, who is seen as his replacement.
A number of clubs continue to keep an eye on what United do in the final weeks of the transfer market.
The forward appeared unfazed by the uncertainty surrounding his future during training ahead of United's Europa League match against Rangers.
Rashford was seen smiling during group exercises, while other shots showed his focus on the session.
Elsewhere, United are set to continue talks with Leece over a move for full-back Patrick Dorgu as well as the sale of Alejandro Garnacho and Antony to Betis following their clash against the Scottish giants.
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